PLM/Microprobe: An Electron Microprobe for Use on a Light Microscope Stage Designed for Trace Evidence Analysis: Final Report

• NCJ Number: 173067
• Author(s): D A Stoney
• Date Published: 1998
• Length: 37 pages
• Grant Number(s): 93-IJ-CX-0016
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored

Annotation

Prototypes of an electron microprobe instrument were designed and constructed to improve the efficiency, reduce the costs, and extend the capability of the forensic examination of trace evidence.

Abstract

The instrument was intended as a more practical and less expensive alternative to the scanning electron microscope equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The new instrument couples a polarized light microscope (PLM) with an electron microprobe to allow the determination of elemental composition along with direct observation of the sample's optical properties and visible cathodoluminescence. The instrument uses a mechanical stage to reposition the sample for elemental analysis. The combination of analytical approaches means that the PLM microprobe can provide comprehensive, quick, micro-analytical capability for the analysis of trace-evidence materials. It is recommended that this instrument's commercial possibilities be assessed. Tables, figures, photographs, appended list of related publications, and 10 references